CEAD specializes in large format thermoplastic composite 3D printing, utilizing modular robot-based systems to produce high-strength, lightweight components for various industries. Their technology reduces production time and labor costs while enabling the creation of complex geometries that traditional manufacturing methods cannot achieve.
Funding
$1.6M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
Founders
Product
Problem
Traditional manufacturing methods for large-format parts often involve lengthy production times, high labor costs, and limitations in creating complex geometries, especially when using thermoplastic composites. This can hinder innovation and efficiency across various industries requiring large, lightweight, and high-strength components.
Solution
CEAD addresses these challenges by providing modular, robot-based systems for large format thermoplastic composite 3D printing. Their solutions enable the creation of complex geometries and high-strength, lightweight components while significantly reducing production time and labor costs. CEAD's technology integrates additive and subtractive manufacturing processes into a single system, offering versatility and customization for specific applications. The Flexbot system, a core offering, combines a Comau robot arm with Siemens Sinumerik control for precise and efficient operation. CEAD also offers standalone pellet extruders that can be integrated with existing robotic or CNC systems to create large-scale 3D printing capabilities. Through pilot projects, training, and ongoing support, CEAD assists clients in implementing and optimizing their large-scale 3D printing solutions.
Target Audience
CEAD's primary customers include manufacturers in the automotive, aerospace, maritime, construction, and tooling industries, as well as research institutions seeking flexible and scalable large-format 3D printing solutions.
Features
- Modular robot-based systems adaptable to custom solutions and integration of multiple processes
- Pellet extrusion technology for processing fiber-filled thermoplastic composites
- Siemens Sinumerik 840D control for precise robotic arm operation and control of up to 31 axes
- Combined 3D printing and CNC milling capabilities for achieving required surface finishes and tolerances
- Flexbot system with options for CNC milling upgrade, robotic arms with payloads up to 290 kg, and heated working tables
- Standalone pellet extruders with controlled temperature, extrusion speed, and automatic material transport
- Print bed with diversion plugs for strong mechanical bonding and stability during printing
- Capability to print with a wide range of thermoplastic materials, including PET-G, ABS, PC with glass/carbon fiber, and PE